A composite article includes a plurality of fibers at least partially embedded within a matrix. The fibers may be adhered to the matrix at a level of adhesion. The adhesion level between the fibers and the matrix may be varied spatially within the composite article. For example, the adhesion level may vary along a length of one of the fibers. The adhesion level may also vary among the fibers of a given layer. Furthermore, the adhesion level may vary between the layers of the composite article.